68. Mr. Amoryasked the Minister of Food whether building operatives in rural areas are in future to be eligible for the extra cheese ration only if they are working for a continuous period of six months on new houses; and why those who are engaged in the construction or repair of farm buildings or other necessary repair work are to be deprived of this benefit.
§ Dr. SummerskillI can assure the hon. Member that there has been no change in the regulations. The workers referred to 1015 in the last half of his Question will not be deprived of this benefit if they qualify in other respects.
Mr. AmoryWill the hon. Lady face up to it that under the present regulations who is and who is not entitled to an extra cheese ration is leading to many ridiculous anomalies, and also to a great deal of resentment amongst those who are deprived of the benefits for reasons they cannot understand
§ Dr. SummerskillI can assure the hon. Gentleman that it is not misunderstood by the workers. Those workers who are regularly and solely employed on building work in the rural areas qualify provided there are no catering facilities available. Others do not.
§ Mr. Vernon BartlettIs the hon. Lady aware that, in fact, the workers do not understand it, that there is great confusion in the country about it, and will she make sure that a much fuller explanation is given?
§ Dr. SummerskillI apologise to the hon. Gentleman, but I think I have answered questions on more occasions on this subject than on any other subject.